Schools in England roll out new lessons to stop child money mules
Four lesson plans for ages 10 to 18 are available nationally as data shows rising numbers of under-21s caught in fraud schemes.
By Sarah Montgomery ·
Four specific lesson plans for students aged 10 to 18 became available across England on Wednesday. The curriculum was developed by police in the south-west to address the growing number of children who become financial tools for online fraudsters.
The new materials teach pupils how to identify common scams. In one observed session at Gainsborough Primary School in east London, teacher Andrew Miles worked with 10 and 11-year-olds. The class examined a scenario involving a gamer named Farrah who was asked for bank details by an online stranger. Students identified the request as suspicious and agreed that a trusted adult should be informed.
Jordan Coates, a fraud and cyber protect co-ordinator with the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit, helped create the lesson plan. She described the program as a full package that includes safe discussions and support resources. Coates stated her goal is for pupils to feel empowered to challenge uncomfortable behavior and seek help.
Statistics from the UK show the scale of the problem. One in five money muling incidents last year involved someone under age 21. The Financial Conduct Agency reported that almost one in 25 suspected money mules it handled in 2025 were under 18. Scammers often target children with offers of cash or gifts, using their accounts to launder stolen funds. Victims may face blocked bank accounts or prosecution.
The rollout includes information for teachers, parents, and carers. This guidance details how to spot warning signs and where to find support if a child reports a concerning interaction. Barb Sims, the executive principal at Gainsborough Primary, said the lesson content was well-pitched. She noted that students retained a large amount of new information after the session.
Lord Hanson, the minister for fraud, was present at the classroom demonstration. He is overseeing the government's Fraud Strategy, which was published in March. Hanson said the objective is to provide preparation for the dangers of the online world. He emphasized that early understanding of potential difficulties is important for young people.
The lesson plans are tailored to different key stages. Teachers will use the materials to discuss exploitation and financial tricks. Parents and carers will receive separate resources on scam types and support options.
